Politicians and pundits have criticized the newly passed House health care bill — saying that it was rushed to the floor too soon, after just days of debate. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has not had time to analyze the bill. And some Congressmen, it turns out, haven’t even had time to read it.
Appearing on The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer Thursday, Congressman Chris Collins (R-NY) conceded that he hadn’t even examined the document.
“I will fully admit, Wolf, I did not,” Collins said, saying that he relied on his staff to read the bill and brief him.
Collins was not alone. In the very next segment, Congressman Elijah Cummings (D-MD) likewise said that he was briefed by his staff.
Blitzer was taken aback by this. He pressed Collins on whether he had a responsibility to actually read the legislation which stands to impact so many.
“This legislation affects fifth of the U.S. economy and millions and millions of Americans,” Blitzer said. “Don’t you think it was important to actually sit down and read — read the language of this bill?”
“You know, I have to rely on my staff,” Collins said. “And I can probably tell you that I read every word, and I wouldn’t be telling you the truth, nor would any other member. We rely on our staff, and we rely on our committees, and I’m comfortable that I understand this bill in its entirety, Wolf, without poring through every word.”
Watch above, via CNN.
[featured image via screengrab]
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